Cyprus Revokes 77 Additional Passports Issued Under Golden Passport Program
Cyprus Revokes 77 More Passports Under Scrutiny of Golden Passport Program
Cyprus has revoked an additional 77 passports issued under its now-defunct Golden Passport Program, citing reasons such as criminal records, false declarations, and failure to meet naturalization requirements. High-profile individuals affected by this decision include Russian oligarch Alexei Kuzmichev, former FSB investigator Sergey Kovbasyuk, metals magnate Oleg Deripaska, Ukrainian billionaire Ihor Kolomoisky, and fugitive Malaysian financier Jho Low.
Transparency Issues and Parliamentary Debate
The revocation follows a controversial disclosure of a list of providers alleged to have promoted problematic passports. The list, requested by AKEL MP Irini Charalambidou, was submitted to the Parliament by Minister of the Interior Konstantinos Ioannou after securing approval from the Legal Service. However, Ioannou marked the letter as confidential, prompting Charalambidou to publish the names.
In October 2024, a Politico report revealed that Ioannou cited three reasons for initially withholding the list, sparking debate over the transparency of the Golden Passport Program.
Corruption Allegations and Charges
Cyprus’ former Transport Minister, Marios Demetriades, was charged in September 2024 with money laundering, bribery, and corruption linked to the program. Demetriades, however, has denied the allegations, claiming he is being used as a scapegoat.
Revocations Over the Years
Since the program’s inception in 2013, a total of 286 citizenships have been revoked. The Golden Passport Program, which allowed wealthy investors to gain Cypriot citizenship through significant financial contributions, brought over €7 billion into the country's economy before its termination in 2020.
Program Termination and Aftermath
The program was officially terminated in 2020 following an Al Jazeera report exposing widespread irregularities, including money laundering, tax evasion, and corruption. These revelations have led to intensified scrutiny and legal actions against those linked to the scheme.
Outlook
Cyprus continues to address the fallout from the Golden Passport Program, balancing the need for accountability with efforts to maintain trust in its governance. The revocations underscore the challenges of managing such investment schemes while ensuring compliance with legal and ethical standards.
About AtoZ Serwis Plus
AtoZ Serwis Plus, founded in 2009, is a top-tier B2C and B2B immigration agency providing specialised services globally. Headquartered in Poland, with operations in over five European countries and partner offices worldwide, it supports clients with expert immigration services. The agency works with regulated immigration lawyers in Poland and Portugal, ensuring professional and reliable assistance.
Our Expertise
- Immigration Services: Comprehensive support for individuals and businesses.
- Recruitment Projects: This program assists job seekers from countries like Ukraine, India, Bangladesh, and others in finding employment in European nations, including Poland, Germany, and Malta.
- Legal Backing: Supported by Polish attorneys with registration numbers: Region: 382604058, NIP: 5252780856, KRS: 0000770916.
For Employer Registration!
Are you looking to Hire? Let us help you find the perfect candidates!
-
Step 1: Fill out the employer questionnaire. Please provide us with the necessary details about your job requirements and company. We'll use this information to customise our services for you. Fill in the form.
- Step 2: Choose the best offer. Once we receive your completed questionnaire, we'll prepare a tailored proposal for recruitment, employee leasing, or outsourcing services.
- Step 3: Welcome your new employee. We'll use our extensive network and resources to find the ideal candidate for your business. We have favourable conditions for you and the employee.
Take advantage of exceptional talent for your company. Complete the questionnaire today, and let us handle your hiring needs.
Would you happen to need new employees? Our Immigration agencies can assist you in finding the best candidates from various countries, including:
Regions We Recruit From:
- CIS: Armenia, Azerbaijan, Belarus, Georgia, Kazakhstan, and more.
- Southeast Asia: India, Bangladesh, Nepal, Philippines, Vietnam, etc.
- Africa: Nigeria, Ghana, Morocco, and others.
- Europe: EU and EEA countries, including Germany, Poland, and Malta.
We take a personalised approach to each of our clients and ensure that we understand your specific needs and requirements for candidates before deciding on the cost of our services. It's a critical step in the recruitment process, and we ask that you fill in all the fields as thoroughly as possible to help us and the job applicants.
For Job Seeker Registration!
If you'd like to find work opportunities in Europe, please complete the application form on our website. Once you have filled out all the necessary details, our team at AtoZ Serwis Plus will review your application and contact you to give you more information. Don't hesitate to fill out the form and take the first step towards your new job. Fill in the form.
Just to let you know, we only communicate with selected candidates. If you don't get a response from our recruitment specialist, we won't be able to offer you a position.
Become our recruitment and immigration partner!
Join Us: Premier Partnerships for Recruitment and Immigration Agencies.
Partner with us as a recruitment or immigration agency to access job opportunities and work visa services. You can register now by filling out our online form.
Why Partner with Us?
- Extensive Job Opportunities: Diverse job openings across industries and locations.
- Comprehensive Visa Services: Simplify the visa application process.
- Global Reach: Connect with employers and candidates worldwide.
- Support and Guidance: Dedicated support for a smooth partnership.
Benefits
- Increased Revenue: Expand your services and attract more clients.
- Enhanced Credibility: Partnering with us adds credibility to your agency.
- Seamless Integration: Easily integrate our services with your operations.
- Access to Resources: Valuable tools to better serve your clients.
How to Join
- Register: Fill out our online form.
- Verification: We review and verify your credentials.
- Agreement: Sign the partnership agreement.
- Get Started: Offer our job and visa services to your clients.
Contact Us
AtoZ Serwis Plus has over 14 years of experience and assists thousands of job seekers annually, making it a leader in workforce solutions across Europe.
Would you like some advice? So that you know, the information I've included is for you to review. You'll always consult with your legal and tax advisor(s) and follow their guidance. AtoZ, Serwis Plus cannot assist with legal or tax matters. The information presented is not specific to any particular company or workforce nor reflects how AtoZ Serwis Plus products are distributed in any jurisdiction. In reading, it is general. AtoZ Serwis Plus makes no representations or warranties regarding this information's completeness or timeliness. It shall not be liable for any losses from using or relying on it. Please be careful when using this information.
